Transplanting brain cells to treat severe epilepsy
Cortical Interneuron Transplantation to Treat Intractable Epilepsy
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10782798
This study is exploring a new way to help people with hard-to-treat epilepsy by transplanting special brain cells into their brains, which might help reduce seizures and improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10782798 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating intractable epilepsy by transplanting specialized brain cells called cortical interneurons into the brains of patients. The goal is to enhance the brain's ability to inhibit abnormal electrical activity that leads to seizures. By using human pluripotent stem cells to create these neurons, the study aims to overcome ethical concerns associated with fetal neuron use and ensure safe integration into the brain's circuitry. Patients participating in this research may receive these transplanted cells to potentially reduce their seizure frequency and improve their quality of life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who suffer from intractable epilepsy and have not found relief from anti-seizure medications.
Not a fit: Patients whose seizures are well-controlled with current anti-seizure medications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic option for patients with epilepsy who do not respond to existing treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using cell transplantation for epilepsy treatment, indicating that this approach could be a viable option.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES — Newark, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHUNG, SANGMI — RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: CHUNG, SANGMI
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.